Major roadworks and events

Essential works and special events in the West Midlands can have a major impact on all transport. Here, we list some of the future works and events that could affect your journey, and provide advice to help you plan a way around them. Some works on the motorway can also affect your journey on local roads.

Highways England has started its next stage of the M5 works between junctions 1 and 2 (Oldbury Viaduct).

The capacity on this stretch of motorway has been considerably reduced which is expected to cause delays. The usual three lanes in each direction have been reduced to two lanes in each direction with a reduced 30mph speed limit. We expect traffic to increase when the summer holidays end and some drivers return to work.

People who use the motorway and the local road network are being urged to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys. They are also encouraged to consider how and when they travel during the works. Especially as the start of these works corresponds with the on-going works at M6/A38(M) (Spaghetti Junction).

Public transport is really easy to use and could save you time and money.

Reducing the number of car journeys during these roadworks will minimise disruption in the area.

The Midland Metro line that operates between Wolverhampton and Birmingham is closed between Priestfield and Wolverhampton St. George’s for essential tram track maintenance works.

Midland Metro is operating from Priestfield to Grand Central with a new timetable.

A replacement bus servicefrom the Crescent Stop is operating during the works to allow Midland Metro customers to continue their journeys to and from Wolverhampton City Centre. Bus connections are not available from Priestfield.

Check out planned major events and football matches that may cause an increase in traffic in the area.

Tip 4 - Choose time over distance

Before you travel visit Highways England for real time updates on closures, roadworks and traffic levels on England's motorway and major roads network. You may travel a longer distance but it's likely you will get to your destination faster.

Tip 5 - Try the bus

With hundreds of brand-new eco-efficient buses hitting the roads around you, bus travel in the West Midlands is connecting more people with more places than ever.

Tip 6 - Travel by tram

Your frequent* Midland Metro runs from Wolverhampton to Birmingham, so it’s perfect for getting to Bilston, Wednesbury, West Bromwich, The Hawthorns and the Jewellery Quarter.

Tip 7 - Plan your journey by public transport

Check out our Journey Planner to see if you can make your journey by bus, train or tram.

Tip 8 - Give your bike a try

Cycling is a cheap, easy way to commute to and from work and most rail stations have cycle parking.

Tip 9 - Sign up to get information at your fingertips

Sign up to our NWM Apps to get all the latest news, find out in real time when your bus or train is due and receive service alerts direct to your mobile.

Tip 10 - Get your ticket to ride

We’ve got all your ticket and pass options covered. Whether you need to catch the bus, train or tram, for just one day, one month or a year. Also, see National Express's current bus offer.